At Soorty, we are committed to enhancing women’s roles in the industrial sector and fostering community development.
Our initiatives, driven by a multi-faceted approach, empower women by providing them with essential tools and resources for personal and collective success.
SEWS: Soorty Enhancing Women’s Service
Saba Dreams Matter - Dispelling Myths
To combat low female employment representation in industries due to prevalent myths, Soorty partnered with organizations such as the Thespianz Foundation, Sustainability Agents (SUSA), and UNDP. Together, we launched a community-based Street Theatre campaign in Karachi’s Korangi District. This initiative successfully dispelled myths surrounding industrial work, resulting in 25% of female hirings being referrals from those who witnessed the campaign.
Gender Sensitivity Training – UN Women
In collaboration with UN Women, Soorty developed a gender sensitivity training program. This program equips our staff with a deep understanding of workplace harassment and discrimination, with a focus on female health, financial inclusion, and effective reporting mechanisms. These interactive sessions were conducted for both male and female staff, fostering a safer and more inclusive workspace for all.
BSR’s HERessentials Program
Soorty partnered with BSR, ECI, and PRIMARK to pilot the HERessentials training program at our facility. This program reinforces applied human rights knowledge, benefiting both our company’s operations and the community. Through HERessentials, 139 staff members were trained on managing work-related stress, female health, digital financial inclusion, and awareness of digital financial services. The training included interactive videos, games, and jingles, making it an engaging and effective e-learning experience.
Celebrating Women
At Soorty, we understand the unique challenges working women face as they balance family, work, and personal responsibilities. Our Women’s Day activities are designed to provide them with a well-deserved break, promoting relaxation and self-care, and emphasizing the importance of their well-being in their life journey.
Women’s Day 2022: Beach Retreat and Empowerment
In 2022, Soorty organized a Beach Retreat for our female staff across the group. This retreat offered a Meditative Art Therapy session led by a certified yoga instructor, providing a much-needed break from daily routines and work-related stress. Following the session, participants enjoyed water sports activities and a luncheon, fully embracing their day off.
Moreover, over 100 women, including factory workers and office staff, received self-defence training sessions from a certified instructor. They learned valuable techniques to protect themselves and handle incidents of harassment and violence. Additionally, we provided them with tools such as pepper sprays and tasers for added security.
Women’s Day 2023: DigitALL Empowerment
In alignment with the 2023 theme, DigitALL, Soorty conducted training sessions for female staff on leveraging social media and online resources for entrepreneurship opportunities. They also received guidance on maintaining online security while pursuing additional income avenues.
Building on the positive feedback from the previous year, Soorty organized another retreat at a farmhouse for female staff. Here, women shared their personal journeys to inspire and motivate their colleagues. They participated in a sustainability-themed scavenger hunt to raise awareness and relaxed by the pool at the end of the day.
SEWS Sports: Empowering Women Through Sports and Health
At Soorty, we are committed to empowering women through sports and promoting their health and well-being. Our initiatives are aimed at creating opportunities, raising awareness, and providing support where it matters most.
Star Women’s Sports Academy (SWSA) – Sports Camps
In collaboration with UN Women, Soorty sponsored and organized hockey and football training camps in Islamabad for girls from rural communities in Jacobabad. These camps opened doors for young girls, allowing them to train on professional grounds and pursue sports careers. We also organized a nationwide hockey tournament in Sukkur, attracting women from across the country. Thanks in part to our efforts, the Sindh Government constructed a modern hockey stadium in Jacobabad for these aspiring athletes.
Soorty Premier League – Inclusive Cricket Tournament
In a historic move, Soorty hosted its first-ever female-inclusive cricket tournament as part of our annual Premier League. Women from across our organization participated in try-outs, accompanied by a motivational session led by the founder of the Star Women’s Sports Academy. Two teams, comprising women from different units, competed for a trophy and cash prizes, showcasing their talent and dedication to sports.
Breast Cancer Eradication Campaign
At Soorty, we prioritize the health of our female staff. Every year, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month (Pinktober), we conduct extensive awareness sessions on self-examination techniques, early identification, risk factors, and preventive measures for all our female employees. We also go the extra mile by offering free screenings, testing, and treatment in collaboration with our partner, Transparent Hands, ensuring that our staff receives the care they need.
